NFL Draft Day 1: AFC North Wrap Up

Round 1 of the NFL draft saw two big tackles and a corner joining the best division

The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft has come and gone. A lot of things occurred. Some moves were predictable, others were surprising. However, we aren’t focused on what other teams did, we are focused on what the AFC North teams did. The Cleveland Browns didn’t have a 1st round pick this year but will pick on Friday evening. However, the Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers all had first-round picks and all made selections.

Let’s discuss the picks that were made by the AFC North rivals.

Pittsburgh Steelers- OT Troy Fautanu (University of Washington)

The Steelers selecting Fautanu was a bit of a surprise considering how Fautanu was projected to go potentially in the top 15, but he slipped to Pittsburgh. The Steelers offensive line is OK? It’s not bad but there is a clear weakness along the interior and at the left tackle spot. Fautanu has the versatility to play inside as well as outside, and he plays a physical brand of football.

Like most offensive linemen who play with a mean streak, he will have to figure out how to hone in that aggression on the field. There were also some concerns in terms of his health when teams discovered a knee issue.

Solid pick by Pittsburgh as their offensive line was somewhat addressed.

Cincinnati Bengals- OT Amarius Mims (University of Georgia)

Speaking of offensive linemen, Amarius Mims going to the Bengals was necessary. Regardless of the pressing needs that the Bengals have, the offensive line needed to be addressed (surprise to no one).

When it comes to Mims, he has essentially all the athletic tools you want in an offensive tackle. He’s also massive but you couldn’t tell by the way he moves.

Despite what people will say about Mims not being ready to play right away, Mims could come in right away and contribute right away if called upon.

One of the biggest issues that the Bengals offensive line has had in recent memories is lack of depth on the offensive line. If an injury happens along the line, the Bengals will be prepared with Mims in waiting.

Baltimore Ravens- CB Nate Wiggins (University of Clemson)

When it comes to drafting, the Ravens just don’t seem to miss in this department. Wiggins in Baltimore is a perfect fit and he’s in a good spot from a developmental standpoint. Wiggins has all the athletic tools you want in a corner and he’s sticky in coverage, which is a positive for the Ravens defense.

Missed tackles are a concern when it comes to how he plays but that can be fixed. Wiggins has strengthened Baltimore’s secondary and expects him to contribute right away for the Ravens defense.

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Which AFC North pick do you think was the best in Round 1?